How To Properly Care For Your New Porcelain Veneers
Many people feel embarrassed to smile because they are self-conscious about their teeth. This is why many Northwest Arkansas patients turn to the solution of porcelain veneers for a simple, long-lasting way to enhance their smile and overall appearance. This customized cosmetic dental procedure consists of wafer-thin porcelain that covers your existing teeth. The veneers are bonded to the front of your teeth and can cover permanent stains as well as alter the color, shape, size, alignment, and even the spacing of your natural teeth. They offer a quick, effective, and relatively easy smile makeover. Once your veneers are put into place, there are several steps you can take to keep them looking fantastic for years to come.
At All About Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Rogers, AR, cosmetic dentist Dr. Brett Cotham has the skill and expertise needed to refresh your smile. Skilled in modern aesthetic dental procedures like porcelain veneers, his attention to detail provides patients with long-term results they will proudly show off. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and are considering porcelain veneers, read below to learn more about transformative porcelain dental veneers and how to properly care for them so you can get the most out of your stunning new smile.
Putting your best smile forward
Veneers are an excellent solution for correcting cosmetic concerns including minor cracks, chips, stains, gaps, or misshapen teeth. There are other treatments to fix some of these aesthetic concerns, such as cosmetic bonding, teeth whitening, or orthodontic work. Porcelain veneers offer a one-step solution for all of these issues with beautiful results. Both men and women who have stubborn, dark stains on their teeth that even professional teeth whitening cannot remove will be happy with this cosmetic dental option. During your consultation, we will listen to your dental concerns and determine if veneers are your best option to enhance your smile.
Fix cosmetic dental issues with veneers
One of the reasons porcelain veneers are so popular is their ability to offer minimally invasive smile repair for a number of dental concerns. Porcelain veneers can dramatically transform issues affecting the front teeth, including:
- Aging, yellow, stained, or off-color enamel
- Craze lines (tiny cracks) or chips in enamel
- Oddly shaped or small teeth
- Short, worn-down, or uneven teeth
- Minor gaps between teeth
- Slightly crooked or overlapping teeth
What is the process for porcelain veneers?
At All About Smiles in Northwest Arkansas, the entire process for porcelain veneers is usually completed in three separate dentist visits, which includes the initial consultation. After the consultation or planning stage, you'll return to the office and Dr. Cotham will buff your teeth to create a small, thin space where your veneers are placed. Digital impressions and photographs are taken and sent to a laboratory for custom fabrication. Once the veneers are ready, patients will return to the office to have their veneers permanently bonded to their teeth. With proper hygiene and care, veneers can last for years to come.
How to care for your veneers
Cosmetic veneers are made of durable, high-quality porcelain, but they do require ongoing proper care just like your natural teeth. Avoid chewing on hard candy, ice, or other hard objects. Brushing and flossing can maintain the appearance of your veneers and the overall health of your mouth. Regular dental exams and cleanings help to ensure the lifespan of your porcelain veneers. During these visits, your veneers will be checked to make sure they still look great and are functioning appropriately.
Grinding and clenching can cause damage
If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, you may cause significant damage to your oral health. Tooth fractures, chips, and dental misalignment are all results of grinding and clenching. This behavior is not only a problem for your natural teeth but your new porcelain veneers as well. Dr. Cotham will assess your teeth for signs of clenching or grinding and may recommend a protective night guard for your veneers and teeth.
Porcelain veneers durability
On average, veneers can last anywhere from 10 – 20 years. Porcelain veneers are very durable and as long as they are properly cared for, they should last for quite some time. Treat your veneers just like you would your real teeth, with proper dental care at home and with visits to our dental practice.
A whiter, brighter smile
The first step toward your new whiter, brighter smile begins with a consultation At All About Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Cotham will review the pros and cons of porcelain veneers and explain the procedure in detail. During this time, it is important to ask questions and discuss your goals so reasonable expectations are addressed. Following an examination of your mouth, including dental impressions and possibly x-rays, Dr. Cotham will determine if you are a potential candidate.
If you do not feel comfortable with the appearance of your teeth, porcelain veneers may be the answer. This easy dental procedure can significantly improve how you feel on the inside and make your smile reflect those inner feelings. Dr. Brett Cotham at All About Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Rogers, AR, will develop a customized plan for your new smile. If you are interested in learning more about porcelain veneers, give us a call today to schedule your consultation.